Publisher's Synopsis
An excerpt from the INTRODUCTORY REMARKS:
STUDENTS having mastered Part I. of this work will be well prepared to take up this part, which covers all the most important points of Harmony. I have not indulged in any theoretical dissertations on this or that still disputed point, regarding certain chord constructions. My sole aim has been to present the harmonic subject matter as generally used by modern composers, in a practicable, comprehensive manner.
I have endeavoured to write the Preludes, illustrating the divers chord combinations, in as interesting a manner as the short form allowed. I have, at the same time, employed a great variety of metrical and rhythmical motives throughout this part of "Musical Dictation," in order to point out to students the inexhaustible formal resources which characterize modern music.
I have limited myself to the use of the most simple signs of expression; and students, advanced enough to take up this book, are no doubt well acquainted with the manner of interpreting them.
The directions concerning the subject matter, as successively introduced here, are given in connection with the different exercises. I hope this work may prove an aid to students in composition, as well as to those who wish to claim the distinction of being really musical.
